Habitat: Along the coast and in sand and gravel pits, also forages on fields. Breeds in burrows (old rabbit burrows) near the coast. Spends the rest of the year in marshes, salt marshes and mud flats.

Appearance: Found in coastal areas and marshes. Fairly numerous breeding bird in Belgium and the Netherlands – partially migratory – passage migrant and winter visitor in large numbers.

Breeding season: April – August, nest in holes in the ground, 8 – 10 eggs.

Characteristics: Length 55-65 cm, wingspan 110-133 cm, weight 800-1450 grams, age 19 years.

Food: Molluscs, ringworms, small crustaceans, insect larvae, few plants.